Winter in Lebanon, PA, brings cold weather, snow, and slush—all of which can be tough on hardwood floors. Snow, ice, dirt, and salt tracked in on boots can wear down the finish of your floors and even cause damage. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your hardwood floors looking beautiful and in top condition throughout the winter. Here’s a guide to help you care for your hardwood floors with easy-to-follow tips and hacks!

1. Protect Entryways to Minimize Dirt and Moisture

One of the best ways to care for hardwood floors during winter is by reducing the amount of dirt, salt, and moisture that enters your home.

Tips:

• Use Door Mats: Place durable doormats outside and inside each entryway to catch dirt and moisture. Choose mats with textured surfaces to help trap debris from shoes.
• Create a Shoe-Free Zone: Set up a spot near the entryway for family and guests to remove their shoes. Use a shoe rack or basket to keep things organized.
• Boot Tray Hack: Place a boot tray near the door to catch water, mud, and salt from wet shoes. For extra absorption, line the tray with pebbles or a layer of paper towels to prevent water from pooling.

2. Clean Regularly to Prevent Scratches and Damage

Regular cleaning during the winter is crucial to prevent scratches and salt buildup, which can damage hardwood floors over time.

Tips for Daily & Weekly Cleaning:

• Sweep Daily: Use a soft-bristled broom to sweep away salt, dirt, and dust that can scratch the finish.
• Vacuum Weekly: Use a vacuum with a hardwood floor attachment to get into corners and remove any remaining grit. Avoid using a vacuum with a beater bar, as it can scratch the surface.
• Mop Carefully: Use a microfiber mop with a gentle hardwood floor cleaner once a week. Avoid soaking the floor; dampen the mop lightly and avoid standing water, which can warp hardwood.

Quick Cleaning Hack:

• DIY Hardwood Floor Cleaner: Mix a small amount of white vinegar with water and add a few drops of essential oil for a natural cleaner. Spray lightly on the floor and mop with a microfiber cloth for a gentle, residue-free clean.

3. Combat Winter Humidity with Proper Moisture Control

Winter air tends to be dry, which can cause hardwood floors to shrink and develop gaps. On the flip side, excess moisture from melted snow can lead to warping.

Tips for Humidity Management:

• Use a Humidifier: Maintain the humidity level in your home between 35% and 55% during winter. Using a humidifier can help prevent your floors from drying out and shrinking.
• Avoid Excess Moisture: Wipe up any water or snow tracked onto your floors immediately to prevent water from seeping into the wood.
• Monitor Indoor Temperature: Keep the temperature consistent to avoid sudden changes in humidity that can affect the wood. Aim for a comfortable range between 60–80°F.

4. Apply a Protective Layer to Your Hardwood Floors

Adding a protective layer to your hardwood floors can help prevent winter damage and make it easier to clean.

Protection Hacks:

• Use Floor Wax or Polish: Apply a hardwood-safe wax or polish at the beginning of winter. This creates a protective layer that helps repel moisture and dirt, making maintenance easier.
• Place Felt Pads on Furniture Legs: Cold weather can make wood floors more susceptible to scratches. Use felt pads under the legs of chairs, tables, and other furniture to prevent them from scratching the floor.
• Area Rugs for High Traffic Zones: Place area rugs in high-traffic areas to protect your floors from dirt and salt. Opt for non-slip rugs to keep them in place and prevent tripping.

5. Clean Spills and Salt Residue Immediately

Salt and other de-icing chemicals can be very damaging to hardwood floors, leaving behind a gritty residue that can scratch and erode the finish.

Quick Cleaning Tips:

• Wipe Away Salt Residue: Use a damp microfiber cloth to clean up salt stains immediately. Avoid using excessive water; just dampen the cloth enough to lift the residue.
• Baking Soda Solution: For tough salt stains, mix a small amount of baking soda with water and apply it to the stain with a soft cloth. This gentle abrasive can help remove residue without harming the finish.
• Dry Thoroughly: After removing salt stains, wipe the area with a dry cloth to prevent water from seeping into the wood.

6. Deep Clean and Inspect for Damage at the End of Winter

Once winter wraps up, it’s a good idea to give your hardwood floors a thorough cleaning and inspection to address any seasonal wear and tear.

End-of-Winter Checklist:

• Deep Clean: Use a hardwood-safe cleaner and a microfiber mop to remove any lingering grime and dirt that may have built up over the season.
• Inspect for Scratches and Gaps: Look for any visible damage like scratches, gaps, or warping. Minor scratches can often be buffed out with a hardwood floor polish or repair kit.
• Consider Professional Help: If your floors have significant damage, call a professional cleaning service for an assessment. They can help refinish or repair any areas to restore your floor’s original beauty.

Let SOAA Cleaning Services in Lebanon, PA, Take Care of Your Hardwood Floors

Winter is a tough season for hardwood floors, but with the right care and maintenance, you can protect them from the elements. If you’d like some help or a more thorough cleaning, contact SOAA Cleaning Services in Lebanon, PA. Our team is equipped with the expertise and tools needed to maintain and restore the beauty of your hardwood floors. From deep cleaning to protective treatments, we’re here to make sure your floors stay in top shape all winter long.